Ear freeze for back pain? scientists scan brain to find out

NCT ID NCT06825390

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Keith M Vogt Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether a quick cold spray on specific ear points can change how the brain processes chronic low back pain. Sixty adults with back pain for at least 6 months will get either real or fake (sham) ear stimulation. Researchers will use brain scans (fNIRS and MRI) to compare brain activity before and after treatment. The goal is to understand the mechanism, not to prove pain relief.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: cryo-auriculotherapy (cold gas applied to ear points)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could help explain how ear stimulation relieves pain, potentially leading to better non-drug treatments for chronic back pain.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study focused on brain changes, not pain relief. It may not show a clear benefit, and results may not apply to everyone with back pain.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Back Pain Low Back Pain lumbar disk degenerative disorder post laminectomy syndrome somatoform disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BACK PAIN LOWER BACK CHRONIC BACK PAIN WITHOUT RADIATION BACK PAIN, LOW CHRONIC LOW-BACK PAIN LOW BACK PAIN LUMBAR DISC DISEASE LUMBAR DISCOGENIC PAIN LUMBAR PAIN SYNDROME LUMBAR POST-LAMINECTOMY SYNDROME PAIN;BACK LOW;CHRONIC

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pittsburgh
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

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